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QantasLink is still flying

Chief Minister Gallagher has joined the chorus of the alarmed as Qantas engages in industrial terrorism on a scale rarely seen.

She does have some useful information:

“QantasLink provides a high percentage of flights to and from Canberra. In addition, Virgin and Brindabella Airlines continue to service Canberra and we are well served by both coach and rail services.

“The Canberra International Airport is an important part of our local economy supporting the employment of hundreds of locals. The ACT Government was in contact with The Canberra International Airport managing director, Mr Stephen Byron, last night to assure him that the we were ready to assist with any support required by the Airport Group throughout this crisis.

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“The ACT Government is also liaising with coach operators to see if services can be increased – particularly between Sydney and Canberra,” the Chief Minister said.

Stranded travellers in the ACT who require accommodation, assistance or advice on alternate forms of transport can contact the Canberra and region Visitors Centre on 1300 554 114 or visit www.visitcanberra.com.au. Australian Capital Tourism will work closely with the Tourism Industry Council to assist where possible.

A bit of quick googling provides mixed results, but depending on source it seems Australian mean income sits anywhere from 4th to 9th in the world. So maybe not highest in the world, but probably within spitting distance.

Perhaps one of our resident stats specialists can pull out a better answer…?

As I recall, when the Bali bombings happened it was Qantas which the government leaned on to ferry survivors home and expatriate the bodies. When Ansett went down, Qantas was expected to step in and fly people around.

Admitted.

2604 said :

It also sponsors the Wallabies and the Australian Children’s Choir. So, I’d say it already does a fair bit for the community.

Good on them, and I bet it comes off their tax as a legitimate business expense – which advertising is.

I’m happy for QANTAS to reduce their cost base so long as it doesn’t come at the expense of safety, and so long as they don’t expect special treatment.